Johnston County Deputies Charge Police Officer With Three Felonies

JOHNSTON COUNTY, N.C. — A WakeMed Campus Police officer surrendered Monday to the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office on felony charges alleging he committed sex crimes against a female juvenile in Johnston County in 2022.

Chad Roger Penland, 47, of Marcom Court, Angier, (a Johnston County address) was charged with two counts of indecent liberties with a minor and one count of statutory sex offense. He was booked into the Johnston County Detention Center under a $350,000 secured bond.

According to the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, the alleged victim reported the incident on June 25, 2026. According to detectives and arrest warrants, the alleged offenses occurred on or about Feb. 6, 2022, when the girl was 15 years old and living in Johnston County. The victim has since moved from the area.

At the time of the alleged offenses, Penland was employed as a sworn police officer with the Morrisville Police Department. He has been employed as a WakeMed Campus Police officer since 2023, Johnston County Report confirmed.

Following an investigation by the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, warrants were obtained and Penland turned himself in Monday accompanied by his attorney.

WakeMed said Penland was suspended immediately after the hospital system was notified of the criminal charges.

“These allegations from 2022 are profoundly concerning, particularly as they involve the safety and well-being of a minor,” said Kristin Kelly, Senior Specialist of Marketing & Communications for WakeMed Health & Hospitals.

Kelly said the alleged offenses did not occur on WakeMed property or involve the hospital system.

“WakeMed is deeply committed to providing our patients with the highest quality care possible in a safe and supportive environment. While we understand these alleged offenses did not take place at WakeMed, we have zero tolerance for any conduct or behavior that threatens the safety and well-being of any member of our community. It does not reflect or define the incredible work of the more than 12,800 employees who deliver health and healing to our patients every day,” Kelly said.

WakeMed said Penland worked as a law enforcement officer for the health system from 2014 to 2018 before joining the Morrisville Police Department, where he served from 2018 until returning to WakeMed in 2023.

The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation remains ongoing.